U.S. to get indication of interest in troubled-asset plan

Applications to participate as an asset manager in the government's massive troubled-asset plan are due today. While Pimco, BlackRock and Bank of New York Mellon are ready to apply for one of the five spots, the process will indicate investor interest in the plan. Some are concerned that fund managers might not participate because of the government intervention and a reluctance on the part of banks to sell their assets.